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Need a new Canon advanced point and shoot

Started Oct 8, 2012 | Discussions thread
james2k50
james2k50 Contributing Member • Posts: 573
Re: Need a new Canon advanced point and shoot

Ashleigh919 wrote:

One of my concerns with the SX40, however, is that it has a DIGIC 4 processor.  If the 5 is out, why would I buy the older one?  Also, does the DIGIC 5 really offer vastly improved performance over the 4?

Sorry for all the questions!

The cameras I am considering are below, and I would appreciate any insight into any of them.

Thanks!

SX260 HS

SX40 HS

SX50

SX500

SX160 IS

The SX40 HS has the DIGIC 5 processor and I know because I use this camera. It is an excellent choice and I am really surprised by the image quality from such a small sensor. I haven't read all of the responses in this thread, but I can tell you this camera is a joy to use.
Some complain of an autofocus issue, but it hasn't happened to me. It took me 10 min. to learn how to use that incredibly long lens and understand how to focus with it. Also does a fantastic job with macro or full telephoto. Image stabilization is very good, capable of keeping your shots steady up to 840mm or 35X optical. Also it works really well as a video camera which is something that I don't really need, but it's handy just in case.
I have read that the SX260 HS and the SX40 HS both use the same sensor and all is virtually identical except for the optical zoom. So it's up to you if you want something that is pocketable "SX260 HS", or something much like DSLR with all of the controls "SX40 HS".
Also I can't speak for the SX260 HS but as for the SX40, the only issue I have is with the EVF. It is very hard to use since it is such low resolution. However it is usable, when you get used to how to focus with it. As for the LCD, it is also low resolution but it fares pretty well so you can tell if you have achieved focus or not. Also, no problems for me in direct sunlight. Nothing much else to say, but I'm really happy with it

 james2k50's gear list:james2k50's gear list
Canon PowerShot SX40 HS Sony SLT-A35 Sony SLT-A65
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